The green game was organized by the Indian Premier League (IPL) as part of the 'Batting for the Environment' initiative, which was launched in March in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Punjab Cricket Association has ensured that the carbon footprint from the game was kept as low as possible by offsetting an estimated 580 tonnes of match-related CO2 emissions. Approximately US$10,150 will go towards supporting an internationally recognized residual biomass project in Rajasthan, India.

The power generation project will not only reduce emissions of CO2, SO2 and soot, it will also contribute to sustainable development by generating income for regional farmers selling agricultural residues.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Kings XI Punjab Captain Mr. Kumar Sangakkara said: "I am proud to be a part of this exciting environmental initiative, and I look forward to participating in many more climate neutral cricket matches in the future."

Mr I.S. Bindra, the Head of the Punjab Cricket Association, said: "The PCA is proud to be hosting and funding the first-ever climate neutral cricket Game, and we are delighted to be part of this new green era for the great game of cricket."

Mr. Viswajeet Khanna, the Secretary, Environment, Government of Punjab and Vice President of the Punjab Cricket Association, said: "We welcome this partnership with UNEP and we look forward to helping raise green awareness among millions of cricket fans."

Talking about the initiative, IPL Chairman and Commissioner, Mr. Lalit Modi said: "The IPL is conscious of its environmental obligations. Due to this, we are working with the UN Environment Programme in efforts to green the IPL and encourage our fans, franchises and partners to take care of our planet."

In calculating the amount of emissions generated from the match, UNEP and the PCA took into account the travel, accommodation and food consumption of all the players, officials as well as local fans travelling to the venue.

Other simple measures put in place to minimize waste and emissions from the game included the prominent distribution of waste bins throughout the stadium.

As a part of its green initiative, the Punjab Cricket Association took a decision to harness solar power in order to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and conventional power. The rooftop of the stadium was used for this to generate 100 KW of solar energy.

The Mohali match, saw the Kings XI Punjab play the Mumbai Indians, and was the first of five climate-neutral games being played across India under the 'Batting for the Environment' initiative which pledges to increase environmental awareness among millions of cricket fans and the wider public.

As part of the 'Batting for the Environment' initiative, 'Green Tips' are flashing across giant screens in stadiums and are being announced by commentators daily during the course of the 45-day tournament, advising cricketers and fans on how to play a part in limiting greenhouse gas emissions and caring for the environment.

Notes to Editors:

The Indian Premier League (IPL) launched the 'Batting for the Environment' initiative in March 2010 in partnership with UNEP.

UNEP is assisting the IPL and looking at ways to save energy, water and lessen waste from the matches. This means looking at a variety of elements including stadium lights, transport and refreshments.

UNEP is advising the IPL on calculating its greenhouse gas emissions, and then looking at how the IPL can reduce them. The IPL's vision is to go 'climate neutral', meaning that cricket matches will have a neutral effect on the climate. Unavoidable greenhouse gas emissions will be compensated by investment in climate protection projects.

The IPL will also ensure that any new cricket stadiums in India are built to sustainable standards.

Team captains are taking a pledge to reduce their teams' environmental impact - a critical act during 2010, which has been declared the UN International Year of Biodiversity.

All players, sponsors and partners will be more mindful of their footprint.

And to inspire everyone associated with the IPL to take positive environmental action, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has been appointed a UNEP Goodwill Ambassador.